Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It has broken the seal for other women to come forward and speak about abuse of power and sexual harassment and abuse in the workplace. We are going to see a lot more of it over the coming weeks and months. It will take varying amounts of time for women to feel comfortable. Some may have to talk to family and friends first, and tell them first about an experience they have had before they are in a position to talk about it publicly. I think there is an avalanche on the way. It is welcome and I thank the women who have spoken up so far for their courage.

In Grace Dyas's blog, if people have not read it yet, there is a very important line that says, "I believe you before you open your mouth." It was such an important sentence for me. It is because of that fear of not being believed that the culture has existed to facilitate silence of sexual abusers and people who abuse their power in certain sectors. This House could send a very important message to those women, that we believe them before they open their mouths, by calling for the Minister for Justice and Equality to come in and talk about abuse of power, misogyny and sexism in the workplace.